“I Think of Demons”, Roky Erickson

This way: I Think of Demons

Roky Erickson (July 15, 1947 – May 31, 2019) was an American singer-songwriter, harmonica player, and guitarist from Texas. He was a founding member of The 13th Floor Elevators and a pioneer of the psychedelic rock genre. Erickson co-founded the 13th Floor Elevators in late 1965. In 1968, while performing at HemisFair, Erickson began speaking gibberish. He was soon diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and sent to a Houston psychiatric hospital, where he involuntarily received electroconvulsive therapy. In 1969, Erickson was arrested for possession of a single marijuana joint in Austin. Facing a potential ten-year incarceration, Erickson pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to avoid prison, ultimately remaining in custody until 1972. This song is from his band Roky Erickson and the Aliens in 1979. Despite all his legal and mental health issues he lead a prolific career. Sadly he died a few days ago, but I love his unique perspective and phenomenal creative output.

[Spotify] I Think of Demons